Pronunciation: [sˈɛkənd kˈʌzən] (IPA) 
The spelling of "second cousin" can be a little confusing. The word "cousin" itself is spelled with a "c" and "s" together to represent the "s" sound. However, when adding the prefix "second," the "c" changes to a "g" to represent the "g" sound. Therefore, the correct spelling is "second cousin," with a "g" in place of the "c." In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˈsɛkənd ˈkʌzn/.
The term "second cousin" refers to a familial relationship that exists within a larger family tree. It denotes a person who shares a common great-grandparent with another individual, but their own direct grandparents are not the same. In other words, second cousins are the offspring of cousins or the children of first cousins. This makes them part of the extended family, albeit distantly related.
A second cousin, therefore, shares genetic heritage to a certain extent, although the blood relationship is more diluted compared to that of first cousins. They share a set of great-great-grandparents, and while their common ancestors are further back in the family lineage, there is still some degree of familial connection.
The term "second cousin" is often used to describe the relationship between individuals who are not closely acquainted or familiar with each other. It signifies that they belong to the same extended family, but are not immediate family members or siblings. While the bond between second cousins may not be as strong as that of siblings or first cousins, there can still be a sense of connection and shared history within the broader family context.
Understanding the concept of a second cousin can be important when exploring genealogy, determining family connections, or considering ancestry and heritage.
The son or daughter of a cousin.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "second cousin" is derived from the combination of the word "second" and the word "cousin".
The term "cousin" originates from the Old French word "cosin", which means "relative" or "kinsman". It is believed to have been derived from the Latin word "consobrinus", which refers to a cousin or even a nephew.
The word "second" comes from the Latin word "secundus", meaning "following" or "next". It is used to denote the ordinal number after the first. In the context of "second cousin", it refers to the fact that these cousins are individuals who share great-grandparents, making them the generation immediately following direct cousins (siblings, or first cousins).
Therefore, "second cousin" refers to someone who shares a common ancestor in the second generation, i.e.
